That's a direct message to C.J. Anderson, who'll start the season as Denver's top dog. Kubiak needs to see running ability, but also receiving and blocking skills.

Do all three, and Anderson will get his chance to shine. Kubiak coached a league-leader in carries once (Arian Foster in 2012), with two other Kubiak-coached backs cracking the top 10 in other seasons (Steve Slaton, 2008 and Justin Forsett, 2014).

"He has told us if you get the chance and play well, you will stay out there. My goal is to be out there all three downs," Anderson said. "That's my plan."

That's music to Kubiak's ears. If he had his way, he'd never pull Anderson from a game.

Said Kubiak: "I think if a guy goes out there and he shows he can play three downs, can protect the quarterback, and can handle it, then he should stay out there."